Liverpool find themselves in a tense situation as Arne Slot’s future hangs in the balance after a series of disappointing results across all competitions. The pressure has intensified following their latest setback—a humiliating 1–4 defeat to PSV Eindhoven on Matchday 5 of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League, a loss made even worse because it happened at Anfield.

The Reds have now suffered three consecutive defeats, a slump that has placed Slot’s job under serious threat. As uncertainty grows, several high-profile managers have been linked as potential successors.

Here are five candidates who could take over at Liverpool, based on reports from Give Me Sport.

1. Jürgen Klopp — The Emotional Favorite and the Name Fans Are Dreaming Of

Who understands Liverpool better than the man who transformed the club in the modern era?
Jürgen Klopp, the architect of Liverpool’s return to glory, remains the most exciting—and emotional—candidate on the list.

Klopp’s nine-year reign brought Liverpool:

• Their sixth Champions League title

• Their first Premier League trophy in 20 years

• A rebuilt identity rooted in passion, pressing, and unity

Although he stepped away from the job to recharge, Klopp recently stirred speculation by refusing to shut the door on a potential return. In a podcast appearance, he reminded fans that he would never coach another English club.

“I said I would never manage another team in England, which means if I come back, it would be Liverpool. So yes, in theory, it’s possible,” Klopp told Give Me Sport.

His return would electrify Anfield—but whether he is ready to jump back into management remains the biggest question.

2. Steven Gerrard — The Club Legend Waiting for a New Challenge

Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard is currently out of work and openly searching for his next opportunity. A return to Anfield would be a fairytale scenario—one that many supporters secretly dream of.

Gerrard’s coaching career has had highs and lows. He led Rangers to a historic league title, ending Celtic’s dominance, but his spells at Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq were far less successful.

Still, Gerrard’s emotional connection to Liverpool is unmatched.
If the club extends an offer, it would be almost impossible for him to refuse.

3. Zinedine Zidane — A Serial Winner with Unmatched Pedigree

As one of football’s most iconic figures, Zinedine Zidane would instantly command respect in any dressing room—and Liverpool’s would be no exception.

His managerial CV speaks for itself:

• Three consecutive Champions League titles with Real Madrid

• Two La Liga trophies

• Proven big-match mentality and elite man-management

Zidane has been without a club since leaving Madrid in May 2021, carefully waiting for the right project. Interestingly, he once expressed his admiration for Anfield, calling it the best stadium he ever played in.

The opportunity to coach in the Premier League—and inside a stadium he reveres—could tempt him back into management.

4. Xavi Hernández — The Possession Master with a Modern Vision

Former Barcelona midfield maestro Xavi Hernández is also a strong contender. He has already won league titles in Qatar and Spain, and his tactical identity—possession-heavy, high-tempo attacking football—would appeal to Liverpool’s board.

Xavi became a free agent after leaving Barcelona in May 2024 due to disagreements with the club’s hierarchy. Reports suggest he is open to coaching in the Premier League, making Liverpool a natural fit.

However, concerns exist:

• His managerial experience is still relatively limited

• Liverpool’s main issue today is balance between attack and defense, something Xavi struggled with at Barca

Even so, he remains a compelling option for a club seeking a long-term, philosophy-driven manager.

5. Andoni Iraola — The Premier League-Proven Tactician on the Rise

If Liverpool want a manager who is already thriving in the Premier League, Andoni Iraola stands out. The Spanish coach has transformed Bournemouth into one of the most exciting and unpredictable teams in the league.

Despite losing key defenders like Dean Huijsen and Illia Zabarnyi in the summer window, Iraola’s Bournemouth continue to punch above their weight, earning results against top clubs with bold, energetic football.

His tactics emphasize:

• Aggressive pressing

• Vertical attacking transitions

• High-work-rate defensive structure

While a move to Anfield may not be imminent, many believe it is only a matter of time before a major club comes calling.

Conclusion: Liverpool Stand at a Major Crossroads

With Arne Slot’s future uncertain, Liverpool must tread carefully as they consider their next managerial appointment.
Do they reignite the Klopp era?
Do they trust a club legend like Gerrard?
Do they aim for global prestige with Zidane?
Do they innovate with Xavi?
Or do they choose the rising Premier League tactician Iraola?

Whatever decision they make, it could shape Liverpool’s identity—and trajectory—for the next decade.

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